By KJ Philp, May 2015 Issue. Meet the other winners here.
For the fifth consecutive year, R Salon earned the Echo Readers’ Choice Award in this category.
Echo caught up with owner Rick Patrick (pictured, center) following the April 9 awards ceremony and here's what he had to say:
Echo: With the rise (and fall) of so many local salons, what's your secret?
Patrick: We have grown from 1,500 to 6,000 square feet in the past six years. From four of us to now 68 of us. R salon's staff puts the customer first and, as the owner, I put my staff first .
Echo: In your estimation, what sets R Salon apart among our readers year after year?
Patrick: As far as the gay community, I can't think of any other salon with the sheer number of staff, as well as clients, that are a part of our community and gay-friendly focused.
Echo: In what ways is R Salon involved with and/or support the LGBT community?
Patrick: We employ, advertise, cater to and welcome diversity in R salon. We participate in Pride and Rainbow festivals. We donate to HIV research & children's causes.
Echo: When it comes to LGBT support and clientele, how does your Puerto Vallarta salon compare to your Phoenix salon?
Patrick: [laughs] Well, Puerto Vallarta is the gayest place I've ever been! R salon's clients walk in holding hands and wearing speedos!
Echo: What's the best advice you've ever received?
Patrick: Count to 10. Take the time you need to calm down so you can act rather then react.
Echo: What's the best advice you have to give?
Patrick: Life is short, enjoy the journey and don't wait for the future to relax. Find joy in each day.
Echo: Here's a fun one: Tell us about your earliest Echo memory.
Patrick: Echo was a huge part of my life and business when I owed Trax nightclub.
Echo: What new and exciting things can we expect to see from R Salon between now and the 2016 Echo Readers' Choice Awards?
Patrick: Strippers on Friday afternoon? [Laughs] Just kidding, but that did work at the bar.
Echo: Where is the best way to stay up to date with R Salon?
Patrick: Our website, rsalon.me has a new blog starting next week and at @rsalonphx on Instagram.
Echo: Is there anyone you'd like to thank? Shoutouts you'd like to make
Patrick: We have the best staff and clients, I want to thank them!
Echo: The floor is yours; anything else you'd like to add?
Patrick: Thank you Echo for being there for our community! You're the best!
